Hundreds of people came together at Barnes Park in Sunderland for the inaugural Bridge to Hope Festival, the city's first large-scale celebration of recovery, resilience, hope and community. Organised by Wear Recovery, the event welcomed people in recovery, their families and friends, support organisations and residents for a day focused on connection, wellbeing and positivity.
Colour Run and live entertainment
Visitors took part in the colourful Bridge to Hope Colour Run, enjoyed live music and entertainment, explored activities and information from community organisations, and participated in a range of wellbeing, recovery and family-friendly sessions.
Stories of lived experience
Throughout the day, inspirational stories were shared by people with lived experience, helping to raise awareness of recovery journeys while reducing stigma and encouraging understanding. The festival also highlighted the wide range of support available across Sunderland, bringing together services, charities and community groups in one welcoming space.
The event was captured in a series of photographs showing participants taking part in the Colour Run, families enjoying activities, live performances and community celebrations across the park. Bridge to Hope Festival forms part of Sunderland's One Big Summer programme.
